Mobile retail store structure with inventory system

Abstract

A mobile retail store structure transportable to a plurality of different locations includes a trailer construction configured both exteriorly and interiorly for housing a plurality of storage bins wherein products and / or parts can be stored. Each trailer is a self-sufficient module which includes doors at one end of the trailer unit for entry and exit thereto, portable stairs for providing access to the entry doors, opposed side doors and associated walkways for allowing coupling to additional similarly constructed trailers, extendable canopies for providing a secure passageway between the respective coupled trailers, and a generator / HVAC system for providing heating, cooling and electrical power to each trailer unit. In one embodiment, a terminal is provided to allow a user to either browse electronically various items for selection and / or sale, or access a self-service check-out station to complete a transaction. A plurality of terminals can be coupled to communicate with a master server terminal over a wired / wireless network.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61 / 357,186, filed on Jun. 22, 2010, entitled MOBILE RETAIL INVENTORY SYSTEM, which application is hereby incorporated by reference to the extent permitted by law.BACKGROUND OF INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates generally to a mobile retail store and an inventory system associated therewith and, more particularly, to an improved trailer configuration configured both exteriorly and interiorly for housing mobile retail equipment including a plurality of carousels for the storage of products and / or parts and an inventory system configured for managing the inventory of the mobile retail store wherein the inventory system sends requests and orders to a central inventory server over a network.[0003]Traditionally, retail stores have been located at fixed positions as a stand-alone store, or as part of a shopping center or mall or at some other...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a trailer system with a roll-up rear door and side doors that can be connected to provide additional access openings. The system allows multiple trailers to be connected together, providing space for carousel-type storage systems and point-of-sales terminals. The trailers can be uncoupled and moved around for replenishment and can be equipped with self-serve checkout stations. The system also integrates with a company's enterprise resource planning system, which manages internal and external resources, including tangible assets, financial resources, materials, and human resources. In this way, the system can improve utilization rates and lower initial outlays of funds from users. The patent also describes the use of cloud computing for processing duties and storing data in secured web servers.

Problems solved by technology

Although each of the known structures is suitable for its intended use, none are completely self-contained and each must be moved off-site to monitor and restock the inventory or merchandise.

Furthermore, none of the known mobile stores can be coupled together in a simple, efficient manner to provide expanded retail space to fit the needs and particular applications of the user.

Still further, none of the known mobile stores include an inventory system configured for managing the inventory of the mobile store wherein the inventory system sends requests and orders to a central inventory server over a network.

Images